the mother's heart by
the Almighty, and in following this instinct we do no more than the
beasts of the field. The duty of a mother is to check that feeling as
far as it interferes with the happiness and well-doing of her children,
and it is her duty to do so, and to punish herself in correcting her
children. Jack, it is a selfish feeling which induces mothers to spoil
their children."

"At all events my mother has never spoilt me," replied I.

"No, Jack, she has not; but observe the consequence. You said just now
that excessive tenderness was a fault on the right side; now, how
completely have you proved the contrary! I do not intend to defend your
mother's conduct towards you; she has been unkind to you in your
childhood, and has never shown the affection that a mother ought; but is
not her fault a fault on the right side? Jack, you recollect my saying
`what a difference,' when you told me what you had done for your mother;
I then referred to my son and to you. I indulged him in everything,
sacrificed everything, and he robbed me and left me a beggar. Your
mother has been severe upon you, and yet the first time you have the
means of showing your duty you give her all the money you have in the
world. Your mother may not be right, Jack, but I was dreadfully wrong,
and the result has proved it."

"Well, mother, go on, pray."

"My story is now soon told. I struggled on how I could for more than
two years by selling my furniture and a few ornaments, then the blow
came. When I heard it I would not remain in the town; I left for
London, picked up my living how I could and where I could, till at last
I came down here. Time was as a dream; reflection was too painful. I
felt that it was all my fault, all my own doing. My heart became
hardened, and continued so till I loved you, Jack; and now I have better
feelings, at least I think so."

"But, mother, what was the blow? Is he dead?"

"Yes, Jack, dead--dead on the gibbet. He was hanged for piracy at Port
Royal, Jamaica. Jack," said Nanny, seizing my hand, and pressing it in
her long fingers, "this is a secret; recollect, a secret deep as the
grave; promise me, as you hope for heaven!"

"I do, mother, as I hope for heaven."

"Now, Jack, leave me. Good bye. You will come and see me when you
return, and never bring this subject up again. Bless you, my child!
bless you!"

I left poor old Nanny with her face buried in her apron; and it was in a
very me